We went downtown yesterday to buy leather. Man, shopping on a busy day in the garment district with 2 kids is stressful.

the Bean talked me into that pre-ruffled magenta knit. It's going to be a very simple a-line dress.

I need a new handbag. I originally thought I might just remake this Hobo International bag that died a few years ago. (I kept it for leather instruction/inspiration)...

btw, that's the new leather on the right, and Kona Emerald on top. it's almost a perfect match.

I sketched some basic ideas outside with the kiddos this morning..

made some paper patterns from old newspaper....

and sewed up 2 different ideas (one on each side)

this has 2 handles, (one on each side), with support strips (a la my original HI bag)

and this one is more hobo-esque, with just 1 handle...

When they were laying flat on the floor, I like this hobo one better, but I decided to see them hanging:

and I don't love this hobo one as much hanging...

and I DO love this one, so this idea is the winner! I *THINK* I'm going to put a zipper closure, but I'm not totally sure yet... I'm going to go sit outside with the kiddos again, and read through Making Leather Handbags and the Bag Making Bible, and see how to do it...

(I think the final bag will be lined with this fabric, which I LOOOOOVE)